Oct 13, 2010

Alzheimer's Reading Room Radio Media Tour

I do believe that things have changed over the last seven years. There is a fast growing awareness of Alzheimer's disease, and a fast growing awareness of the valuable role that Alzheimer's caregivers are playing in our society....

The question was based on an article I wrote: Alzheimer's Caregiver Lament -- This is Not the Person I Knew. You can listen to or read the article here.

I spent all of this morning talking to 12 radio stations and Internet networks around the country. I was accompanied on the shows by Dr. Mark Brody of Brain Matters Research here in Delray Beach.

Most of the shows were taped and will be played later in the week. When I obtain the links or podcast versions of the shows I'll publish them here so you can listen in.

I learned that radio talk show hosts really care and they are really worried about Alzheimer's disease. Most of our time was spent talking about Alzheimer's caregiving. It seems that a growing number of radio listeners are getting worried about Alzheimer's disease.

At the minimum, a growing number of Americans want to learn about Alzheimer's disease. This is a good thing, a very good thing.

Most of the shows were ten minutes. Short, but chock full of information for listeners. I did get the opportunity to talk about combination therapy, exercise, the Mediterranean diet, socialization and bright light. This did get me thinking about the value of each of these and I will be writing up additional information on these issues soon.

The radio media tour was valuable to me. Via the hosts I had the chance to learn what is on the minds of listeners around the country. This should help me identify the topics that are most important and to develop additional detailed information on these topics. Of course, I get a very good idea by reading your comments each day.

I can tell you this. The majority of these hosts understand how very difficult it is to be an Alzheimer's caregiver. They are starting to get an idea about how we think and how we feel. We are not alone. Or maybe, not as alone as we used to be. The word is starting to spread and it will become more difficult for people to "stick their head in the sand" as we move forward.

I do believe that things have changed over the last seven years. There is a fast growing awareness of Alzheimer's disease, and a fast growing awareness of the valuable role that Alzheimer's caregivers are playing in our society.

A special thanks to the radio hosts that allowed us to share our insight and advice.

Bob DeMarco is the Founder of the Alzheimer's Reading Room and an Alzheimer's caregiver. Bob has written more than 1,880 articles with more than 95,100 links on the Internet. Bob resides in Delray Beach, FL.

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